This bill aims to enhance student mental health support within Florida's school system by amending existing statutes. It requires the State Board of Education to adopt rules to enforce maximum class size restrictions, ensuring that the number of students per classroom does not exceed set limits. Additionally, the bill mandates that each school district's mental health assistance program includes contracts or interagency agreements to provide at least one licensed mental health therapist per school. It also introduces new requirements for classroom environments, such as designating a corner for students to regulate their emotions and ensuring that homework is purposeful and considerate of students' time outside the classroom.
The bill amends the existing mental health assistance program framework to focus on a multitiered system of supports for students with mental health or co-occurring substance abuse diagnoses. It emphasizes the importance of timely assessments and services, requiring that students referred for mental health screenings be assessed within 15 days and that services be initiated promptly. The legislation also includes provisions for informing parents and households about available behavioral health services, thereby fostering a supportive environment for students' mental health needs. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.